Humans are not the only ones who suffer from allergies. Yes, you read that right, pets get seasonal allergies too!

Unfortunately there is not much you can do as a pet owner to prevent it, but there are ways to alleviate the symptoms that come with it as you are about to read in this blog.

Did you know that pet insurance covers prescription medicines to save you from expensive vet costs? Make sure you have one.

What in the world are seasonal allergies?

Seasonal allergies are commonly triggered by something in the environment. In the past, you might have seen your pet sneezing after coming into contact with pollen, ragweed, dust in the air – these are types of airborne allergens.

Seasonal shifts may increase your pet’s exposure to environmental allergens. For example, during the spring, changes in temperature may trigger an increase of allergens in the air as plants and flowers begin to come in full bloom. 

During the fall and winter months, an increase in winds may create a situation where allergens become airborne and travel, increasing your pet chances in coming into contact with these bothersome allergens.

It is hard to know which particular things your pet might be allergic to. Different allergens affect each pet differently. For example, in dogs allergies commonly affect areas like their skin, eyes, paws, and nose: while in cat’s it’s their nasal passages that are most commonly impacted. It is essential that you know all the signs and find out if it is an allergy.

Also, do not forget to take your pet for a regular check-up to the veterinarian. Your local licensed vet will know what needs to be done. As a caring pet owner, you should find the right pet medical insurance to ensure your pet has the best care possible.

The good thing is there are some symptoms to identify it fast

Just like allergies in humans, even seasonal allergies in pets have specific symptoms to identify them. Knowing these symptoms will help you get the right care for your pet and provide proper treatment to end their misery.

Scratching
Seasonal allergies in many pets affect their skin and particularly the skin around the creased areas. See if your pet is continuously scratching around toes, behind ears, or under the tail.

Red and Irritated Skin
If your pet has patches of irritated skin, especially in body parts that may come in contact allergens such as grass or plants, it might be due to seasonal allergies. If left untreated, it may grow more and can cause serious illness in your pet. The infection-prone area needs proper treatment. Make sure to get it treated in time, or they might turn into hot spots.

Licking / Face Rubbing
To soothe themselves, pets sometimes lick the parts where there is the most irritation. Chewing, rubbing, or even shaking their head violently is another common giveaway for a seasonal allergy in pets.

Red Smelly Ears
Ears are one of your pet’s most sensitive parts. And an ear infection can put them in a lot of pain. Some seasonal allergies are known to make their ears red and smell weird, usually due to discharge.

Puffy Eyes
This one is a common symptom in pets and humans. Like us, their eyes can also swell up and become red when they become exposed to allergens. Cats' eyes are most sensitive to allergens; make sure you take them to a vet and have proper cat medical insurance for the best treatment.

Sneezing
You might catch your pet continuously sneezing or sniffling. This is also common when they encounter the dust present in the house. Make sure you do not put them at any place where they can come in direct contact with allergens and dust.

What to do if you see any of these above symptoms in your pet?

First things first, talk to your vet and get your pet examined thoroughly. 

Sometimes what might look like a seasonal allergy might be something as grave as fungal infection or any other disease. Be prepared for some tests. Some common treatments include frequent bathing and less time outside, but do whatever your vet recommends and do not try to deal with allergies yourself.